The Abbey Museum of Art and Archaeology annually transforms a field near Caboolture into a bustling medieval world, offering the community a unique chance to experience European and Middle Eastern history from 600 to 1600 AD.
Journey into the Past
Each year, the Abbey Medieval Festival provides an immersive step back in time, recreating life centuries ago without the hardships of the Middle Ages. According to the organisers, the event in the Moreton Bay Region focuses on the period between 600 and 1600 AD in Europe and the Middle East.
The source material indicated a previous festival ran over a weekend from Friday, 13 July to Sunday, 15 July, showcasing a packed programme of events. Central to the experience are dedicated re-enactors who share their passion for history and demonstrate medieval daily life, including traditional music, craftsmanship techniques, and games. Visitors can also interact with animals that were common during the era.
Festival Highlights and Tournaments
A major draw for attendees is the series of tournaments held throughout the weekend. Champions are crowned on a Sunday afternoon following intense competitions. The Joust Championship sees skilled Australian jousters compete in a style approximating a 15th-century tournament. Archery skills are also put to the test in a dedicated competition.
Furthermore, the festival features traditional Turkish oil wrestling, presented with careful attention to authentic Ottoman Empire rituals and customs. This includes wearing traditional leather trousers known as Kispet, which are imported specially for the event.
Family Fun and Marketplace
The festival caters to all ages, with Friday designated as a Family Fun Day. This offers a sensory-friendly experience with smaller crowds and fewer loud activities, such as cannon fire demonstrations. Families can enjoy children’s plays, shield painting, and a kids’ archery range.
Alongside the performances and re-enactments, a vibrant marketplace operates throughout the festival. Attendees can browse stalls selling various goods, from candles and herbs to costumes and hats. Food vendors offer medieval-inspired refreshments, including venison pie, German sausage, ale, and mead.
Planning Your Visit
The festival occurs at Abbeystowe, an open field adjacent to the Abbey Museum of Art and Archaeology. For those travelling by car from Brisbane, the journey is approximately 45 minutes via the Bruce Highway, taking the Caboolture-Bribie Island exit (152A) and following signs to Old Toorbul Point Road.
Festival organisers state that visitors who drive must purchase a parking pass and their entry tickets. Alternatively, public transport is available via train to Caboolture station. From there, free shuttle buses run every 15 minutes to the festival site. Visitors using the shuttle should note that the last bus departs from the festival grounds at 5:15 p.m.
Published Date 29-April-2025
Photo Credit: Abbey Medieval Festival/ Facebook
